Non-alcoholic drinks may seem safe for people in recovery but can trigger relapse by mimicking alcohol’s taste, look, and rituals. They’re often used to fit in socially, manage cravings, or test control, yet even small alcohol traces or familiar cues can reactivate addiction pathways. A solid relapse prevention plan should set clear boundaries, provide coping … Read more
A deflection program for addiction redirects people from the criminal justice system to treatment and support services. It offers benefits like reducing incarceration and promoting recovery but faces challenges such as limited access, possible coercion, and ethical concerns around autonomy and privacy. Success depends on combining medical treatment with self-management, family involvement, and strong community … Read more
Drug withdrawal happens when someone dependent on a substance stops or reduces use, causing the brain’s chemistry—especially dopamine, GABA, and norepinephrine pathways—to become unbalanced. This leads to physical symptoms like nausea and muscle pain, and emotional symptoms such as anxiety and cravings. Treatment often includes medical detox, medication-assisted therapy, and behavioral support. Success is improved … Read more
Adderall addiction stems from misuse, boosting dopamine in brain reward pathways and causing dependence. Treatment involves therapy, counseling, and medical care, while recovery depends on self-management, family support, and community resources for lasting sobriety. From Focus to Dependency: Understanding and Preventing Adderall Addiction Adderall addiction refers to the compulsive use of Adderall—a prescription stimulant containing … Read more
Tideglusib, a GSK-3β inhibitor initially developed for neurodegenerative diseases, is now being explored as a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Early research suggests it may reduce chronic alcohol intake by targeting brain pathways linked to addiction. Potential advantages include reduced relapse risk and non-daily dosing. However, disadvantages include limited human trial data and possible … Read more
Integrating Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) treatment into primary care improves access by offering medications and support in a familiar, less stigmatized setting. Benefits include convenience and ongoing care, but challenges involve limited time, behavioral health resources, and provider discomfort. Ethical issues include balancing patient privacy and safety. Effective treatment combines self-management tools, family involvement, and … Read more
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26 raises global awareness about drug abuse and trafficking. The U.S. supports this through legislation, awareness campaigns, and international cooperation. Social media helps spread the message widely, while WHO focuses on evidence-based treatment, harm reduction, and education to promote public health. Together, these efforts … Read more
Emotion-oriented coping styles like avoidance, self-blame, and suppression can increase the risk of addiction by encouraging emotional escape. Preventing addiction involves teaching self-management strategies such as mindfulness and healthy expression, while also strengthening family support through open communication and emotional validation. Community resources—like mental health services and peer networks—further support emotional resilience. Together, these strategies … Read more
Changing from addiction to a purpose-driven mindset is due to brain changes in reward and decision-making pathways from personal challenges or hope. Family support and community resources like treatment, peer groups, and education are key in helping individuals pursue meaningful goals and sustain lasting recovery. From Addiction to Purpose: Rewiring the Mind for a Meaningful … Read more
“Replacing one addiction with another” occurs when someone shifts addictive behaviors to satisfy the brain’s reward system. It involves dopamine and habit pathways. Prevention relies on self-management, healthy coping, family support, and access to treatment and peer resources for lasting recovery. From One Addiction to Another: The Hidden Trap in Recovery Replacing One Addiction with … Read more